Intoduction to Mahabharata
The Mahabharata is an ancient Indian epic, one of the two major Sanskrit epics of ancient India (the other being the Ramayana). With approximately 1.8 million words and over 100,000 verses, it is the longest epic poem ever written.
Main Story
The epic narrates the struggle between two groups of cousins - the Kauravas and the Pandavas - in the Kurukshetra War, and the fates of these cousins and their successive generations. The central conflict arises from a dynastic succession struggle between these two groups for the throne of Hastinapura.
Image: Krishna and Arjuna in a chariot during the Bhagavad Gita discourse
Key Components
- The Pandavas - The five sons of King Pandu (Yudhishthira, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula, and Sahadeva) who are the central protagonists.
- The Kauravas - The 100 sons of King Dhritarashtra, led by the eldest, Duryodhana, who are the antagonists.
- The Bhagavad Gita - A 700-verse Hindu scripture that is part of the epic, comprising a conversation between Arjuna and his guide and charioteer Lord Krishna.
- The Kurukshetra War - The 18-day battle that forms the climax of the epic.
Image: The Pandavas - The Five Brothers
Cultural Significance
Beyond its narrative content, the Mahabharata contains philosophical and devotional material, such as a discussion of the four goals of life. The epic has profound influence on Indian culture and continues to be an important source of guidance on dharma (moral law), offering models in governance, diplomacy, statecraft, relationships, and spirituality.
Watch: The Mahabharata - An Introduction
Listen to a song:
Tum Hi tum ✨ :
Krishna flute 🦚 :
Navigate to other sections to learn more about the characters, detailed story, and visual representations of this epic.